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Asphyxiated Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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asphyxiated

[æsfɪkʃieɪtɪd ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

state of breathing

Asphyxiated refers to the condition of being deprived of oxygen, leading to an inability to breathe. It is often caused by suffocation or a lack of breathable air. This can result in unconsciousness or death if not resolved quickly.

Synonyms

choked, smothered, strangled, suffocated.

Examples of usage

  • He was asphyxiated in the smoke of the burning building.
  • The diver asphyxiated due to a malfunctioning oxygen tank.
  • She nearly asphyxiated while trapped in the closed space.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Medical Understanding

  • The term refers to a condition where the body is deprived of oxygen, leading to unconsciousness or death if not resolved.
  • Common causes include choking, drowning, and exposure to toxic gases, all of which prevent oxygen from reaching the lungs.
  • Signs of being asphyxiated can include gasping for air, turning blue, or losing consciousness.

Historical Context

  • In ancient times, asphyxiation methods were often used in executions or torture, showcasing humanity's darker practices.
  • The first documented medical understanding of asphyxiation can be traced back to the Roman period, where methods of resuscitation began to emerge.
  • The invention of artificial respiration methods in the 20th century helped save countless lives from asphyxiation.

Science

  • Studies in respiratory physiology have shown that just a few minutes without oxygen can lead to irreversible brain damage.
  • Experiments have shown that even slight reductions in air quality can lead to asphyxiation symptoms in certain environments.
  • The body has a remarkable reflex to gasp for air when oxygen levels drop, which is a vital survival mechanism.

Literature

  • Asphyxiation often symbolizes confinement or helplessness in literature, reflecting characters in distressful situations.
  • In Edgar Allan Poe's works, themes of asphyxiation and suffocation frequently illustrate psychological terror.
  • The metaphor of being 'asphyxiated' can be found in poetry, representing emotional suffocation and despair.

Safety Awareness

  • Understanding the risk of asphyxiation has led to the implementation of safety practices in workplaces, especially in confined spaces.
  • Education campaigns on choking hazards have increased awareness, particularly in regards to food safety for young children.
  • First aid training often includes how to recognize and respond to signs of asphyxiation, empowering people to act in emergencies.

Origin of 'asphyxiated'

The term 'asphyxiated' comes from the Greek words 'a-' meaning 'without' and 'sphyxis' meaning 'pulse' or 'breathing'. It was first used in medical texts in the 17th century to describe a condition where individuals were unable to breathe due to obstruction of the airways or other factors affecting respiration. The understanding of asphyxiation expanded with advancements in medical science, allowing for better diagnoses and treatment of individuals experiencing breathing difficulties. The word has since become widely used in both medical contexts and everyday language to describe situations where oxygen supply is compromised.

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #33,615 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.